Contents

Appearance

Akashi's full appearance

Akashi Seijuro has a rather small stature for someone who has captained the Generation of Miracles, as noted by Furihata, at only 173 cm tall, making him the shortest out of the Generation of Miracles. He has spiky red-maroon hair and large eyes with vertical pupils. His hair had longer bangs in Junior High school and during the events preceding the Winter Cup. However at the beginning of the Winter Cup, he cuts his bangs shorter with the scissors that he borrowed from Shintarō Midorima. Akashi's eyes change based on his personality: in his normal self, both his eyes are red-maroon, whereas the "other" Akashi has heterochromatic eyes, with the right eye being red and the left being yellow/orange. He wears the white and light blue Rakuzan jersey with the number 4. He usually wears his jacket over his shoulders.

In EXTRA GAME, Akashi's appearance mostly remained the same except for an increase in muscle and his hair growing longer. He dons the Team Vorpal Swords's white and cardinal jersey with the number 4, which signifies his position as the captain.

Akashi's appearance was not revealed for a long time. The times he appeared or was mentioned, only the lower part of his face or the back of his head was shown. It wasn't until Winter Cup that his full appearance was revealed.

Personality

Akashi

Akashi when first appearing in the series is shown with an extremely intimidating and condescending personality. He is able to control the Generation of Miracles as their leader as they all submit to his requests. Akashi has a certain level of respect for all of his teammates, former and present, and has utter faith in their abilities. Due to the way Akashi grew up during childhood, he developed a strong winners-mentality, believing that winners get everything in life while losers are denied all. Because of the fact that he has never faced defeat before, victory itself is something that he is bestowed upon. Akashi views himself as absolute in power and skill and grows extremely violent when anyone disobeys his commands as shown when he tried to stab Kagami with the scissors he borrowed from Midorima when Kagami disobeyed him. However Kagami revealed that he could sense Akashi already knew he could avoid it.[1]

Initially, Akashi's personality was that of a person who respected his teammates, while still holding that winners-mentality. Akashi also cared and appreciated his fans that gave him daily support and focused solely on teamplay with his team. He also referred people by their last name as a sign of respect and was overall less menacing. The original Akashi personality has red eyes.

"I will gouge out my eyes, and give them to you."

In his Middle School years, Akashi developed a second personality that twists on the original personality. This personality showed extreme hubris and does not tolerate those that belittles him or defies him, stating that those who serve him or earns his respect can look him in the eye. He also stated that if Rakuzan lost to Shutoku during the Winter Cup, he would gouge his eyes out and give them to his teammates. [2] The reactions from all of his teammates and Midorima implied that they knew Akashi would actually do it, something that Takao noticed. This personality first manifested at Teikō Middle School, where Akashi desired to kick Haizaki off the club. [3] When the original personality of Akashi is confronted at the possibility of defeat against fellow teammate Atsushi Murasakibara, the second personaltiy becomes the dominant personality and also activates the Emperor Eye skill for the first time, allowing him to seize victory. This second personality would later sever core teamwork aspects and viewed that coordinated teamplays were not the way to victory, which eventually led to Kuroko leaving the team, and being soundly dominated by Seirin in his last moments of dominance over the original Akashi. He also referred to his teammates by their first name, rather than their last name. [4] This Akashi personality has his right eye - red and his left eye - orange.

The real reason why the second personality manifested was due to the fear of the original Akashi fearing that he will be left behind by his Teikō teammates, who were then acquiring their newfound talents, and due to the amount of pressure his life had put on him to strive for absolute excellence.[5]

Akashi meets his true self inside his consciousness

The original Akashi personality manifests and returns once the second Akashi cracks and falls apart when his Emperor Eye was defeated by the coordination and teamwork of Kuroko and Kagami. Though the original Akashi wanted the second Akashi to fail and lose the match, he decides to take over his rightful place. Once reawakening, Akashi refers to his teammates by their last names once more, giving support (which shocked them) and compliments to their plays, and boosting their morale to the point where the Rakuzan Basketball team was able to enter the "Zone" alongside him. Alongside this, Kuroko notes that because he is the original Akashi, he has also become much more dangerous and stronger. Once being defeated in the Winter Cup, Akashi is hurt by his first loss, but thinks of it as a beginning for something much greater and swears that he and his team will become victorious in their next encounter.

Despite his figure being somewhat related to as the manga's biggest villain, Akashi was shown in the Kuroko no Basket: Kiseki no Game to be extremely caring and considerate towards his former teammates. He constantly reminds them of doing things the right way, even in the way they eat and take care of their digestive system. It was much near the point of nagging that Aomine even called him "mother".

History

Akashi with his mother

Akashi was born from a rich family that possesses their own business. Being the only heir in their family, he was obligated to succeed in all areas by his strict father. His only support at that time was his kind mother whom he spends his free time with while playing basketball. However during his 5th year in elementary school, his mother died because of an illness and his father became even more strict to the point that the more skills he mastered, the more he will be given to master. These made him grow unhappy. After graduating from elementary school, he went to Teikō Junior High. [6]

Akashi and Kuroko meet

Akashi was seen at the tryouts for the Teikō basketball club. His name was called as one of the four freshmen who made it into the first string of the club, a feat never seen before.[7] Akashi was participating in the first string matches until he meet Kuroko at the third string gym and saw his potential. He then pushed Kuroko forward to developing his Misdirection and later on after three months of waiting, Akashi gave Kuroko a decisive test for him to enter the first string. Kuroko passed and he was accepted into the first string where Akashi along with the others greeted him and introduced him to the school's motto "Ever-victorious".

At Kuroko's debut match, the coach put Kuroko in the game only to be taken out a second later due to a nose bleed. This surprised Akashi who then wondered if the coach would gave Kuroko a second chance. During the second half, Kuroko was sent back into the game and Akashi gave him a last piece of advice, allowing Kuroko to finally use Misdirection properly during the match. Later on when Kuroko became a regular on the team, Akashi congratulated him.

Nijimura gave the captain position to Akashi

When Kise joined the basketball club, Akashi assigned Kuroko as his supervisor. Meanwhile, Nijimura went to the coach to ask him to make Akashi the captain instead of him. With the coach's agreement, Nijimura gave Akashi the position of the captain. This was later on announced by the head coach to the team, shocking everyone. As Midorima and Akashi walk together, Akashi tells Midorima that Haizaki should be taken off the team, something which surprised Midorima. On the same day, the other team members got the news that Haizaki has quit the basketball club.

Teikō won the Nationals

Teikō has won all their matches in the Nationals and have advanced to the finals where they will face Kamata West Junior High, with the Genius Twins on the team. During the final match, Teikō had a hard time due to the foul play displayed by the twins. During the break Akashi told Midorima to get Kuroko as they will need his strength to win this match. Later on, Teikō wins their first Nationals. The next day after the Nationals, Akashi was summoned by the coach so he came to school earlier. When he comes into the gym he sees Kuroko practicing. Kuroko takes this chance to thank Akashi for all he has done, if it wasn't for him Kuroko would not be where he is now. Akashi then told him that it is because of him that they won and that he will be counting on him in the future, telling him to focus on winning next year as well. Suddenly Momoi runs up to the two of them telling them that the head coach has collapsed.

With the head coach in the hospital, the assistant coach Sanada had taken his position. During this time the Generation of Miracles talent had become to bloom causing concern for the coach. Back at his house, Akashi was having dinner with his father who told him that education was necessary but that club activities are also important. He told Akashi that nevertheless, he should concentrate on his studies as they have the highest priority for his future.

Akashi awakened his Emperor Eye

The next day when Aomine skipped practice, Akashi told Kuroko to go and talk to him. Meanwhile, Murasakibara questioned why he couldn't skip practice as well since Aomine is. Akashi and Murasakibara got into an argument and have a 1-on-1 match. The one who scored 5 baskets wins. As the match starts, Akashi was pushed back by Murasakibara. Realizing he was going to lose, Akashi awakened his Emperor Eye and won the 1-on-1 match against Murasakibara. He told him that even though he won, Murasakibara was allowed to skip practice as long as he scores for the team.

The other Akashi made his debut

Later on, Kuroko returned not succeeding to convince Aomine to come back. Akashi told Kuroko to forget about Aomine, shocking Kuroko. Kuroko asked Akashi who he was, as he was not acting like himself, with Akashi replying that he is Seijūrō Akashi.

Akashi saw Kuroko practicing shooting in the gym and told him that he should not be doing shooting practice. Kuroko then asked him if he likes basketball to which Akashi replies that his question is ridiculous. Kuroko then mentioned Akashi that he has changed greatly, to which Akashi responded that there were two personalities in him and that they had merely traded places. He said Kuroko that if he had changed, it is not because of him but due to the changes in the team.

In his third year, Akashi and the rest of the Generation of Miracles attended the Nationals again aiming for their third victory in row. They have once again won all of their matches and proceeded into the finals where they were to face Meikō Junior High. Just before the finals match Kuroko was injured by the Genius Twins and had to be taken to the infirmary.

Akashi encounters Ogiwara

Akashi went to visit him but meets Ogiwara in front of the infirmary. Akashi then questioned him what business he has with Kuroko and realized that Ogiwara is Kuroko's friend. Ogiwara left Akashi with a message to Kuroko. As Akashi entered the infirmary he was asked by Kuroko to participate in the finals. Akashi denied seeing Kuroko's condition, but told him not to worry as their victory is certain. Akashi then gave to Kuroko Ogiwara's message which was "We should definitely play again". Akashi then left the infirmary promising Kuroko not to hold back during the match.

The Generation of Miracles gathered after graduation

Teikō had won the Nationals three years in a row. After the match Kuroko questioned Akashi and the others on why they did what they did during the match. They simply replied back by saying that the opponent team was too weak and that otherwise they would have no fun. Kuroko then started to question what victory really is. After this Kuroko left and does not attend school for a while. At the graduation, Akashi approached Kuroko and asked him if he has found an answer to his question which is "What is victory?", Kuroko not having found his answer yet simply replied that he won't run away anymore. Later on, Akashi and the rest of the Generation of Miracles gathered in the gym and made an oath to battle each other, in order to find out who is the strongest of them. As Murasakibara mentioned that Kuroko won't be able to participate, Akashi corrected him saying that even though their ideals might be different, Kuroko will definitely participate in their oath.[8]

Story

Interhigh

Akashi's interview

Akashi's team Rakuzan won against Tōō in the finals of the Interhigh, but neither Akashi nor Aomine competed. After Rakuzan's victory, Akashi had an interview where he said that it wouldn't have been fun if he played, because the victory would have been more certain than before.[9]

Winter Cup preliminaries

Before Seirin's match against Josei High, Akashi was seen in his school, Rakuzan High. He mysteriously throws up some shogi pieces and catches them, smiling.[10] His team did not have to take part in the preliminaries, because they won the Interhigh and are automatically placed.

After the preliminaries and before the tournament, Akashi was seen practicing diligently at Rakuzan's gym. He is thrown a towel for his perspiration by a teammate, and that player starts a conversation with another player about Akashi. Akashi's way of thinking about pre-ordained victory is explained.[11]

Winter Cup

Akashi reunites with his former teammates

Akashi makes his first full appearance shortly after the Winter Cup opening ceremony. He contacts the other Generation of Miracles and asks them to meet up. While the Generation (including Kuroko and Furihata), is already gathered on the front stairs, Akashi arrives late.[12] He apologizes for being late and greets the other members of the Generation of Miracles, calling each one of them by their first names. He says that he enjoys seeing everyone together and remarks that there is somebody here that shouldn't be present, referring to Furihata and asks him to leave so that he can talk to his comrades, but he is interrupted by Kagami, who tells him that he shouldn't act rude like that towards Furihata and allow him to stay.

Akashi attacks Kagami

Kagami greets Akashi and Akashi calmly walks towards Midorima, asking to borrow his scissors. Midorima asks why and Akashi replies that he was thinking about cutting his hair. But instead, he walks towards Kagami and tries to stab him with the scissors.[13] Kagami dodges, but Akashi is able to graze him across the cheek. Akashi decides to let him off the hook for moving like that, but threatens him that he won't forgive him if he ever defies him again. Akashi also states that because he always wins, therefore, he is always right, and some strands of hair falls to the ground, finally revealing his full appearance.

Akashi spectates Seirin vs Tōō

Akashi then announces that he has finished his business here, much to the surprise of Aomine. Akashi explains that he came to check whether they all remember the oath the Generation took but tells him that it looks like no-one has forgotten yet and then takes his leave after telling them that the next time they will meet, will be in battle.[14] He is later seen watching the match between Seirin and Tōō.[15]

When Kuroko shows his new Ignite Pass Kai, Akashi is surprised and impressed by his new skill. Akashi attends the later matches as well, he is seen during Yōsen vs Seirin and Kaijō vs Fukuda Sōgō. His team has won every match in the meantime and has made its way to the semi-finals.

Semi-finals

Akashi before the match

The day of the semi-finals has come and Akashi is seen in his uniform next to his team, with three Uncrowned Kings.[16]

Match time and Akashi leads his team to the court. When his teammates fool around, Akashi warns them about Shūtoku's strength. He gets his uniform ready and informs Mibuchi that he will be starting in the game. He is handed a towel and is treated with respect by all, even the prideful Uncrowned Kings. Akashi, though only a first-year student, had become captain right away, an unheard-of event. When the match starts, Midorima comes up to Akashi and even though Akashi keeps saying that he simply never loses, Midorima states that he will teach him defeat. The tip-off goes to Takao, who quickly passes to Midorima and he pulls up for a mid-court three pointer. It goes in and Midorima repeats that he will beat Akashi. Akashi seems amused.[17]

Akashi vs Takao

During the first quarter, Akashi does not do anything notable. He is seen to be guarded by Takao and tries to get past him by using speed, but then passes to the inside instead. Takao was expecting an overwhelming force from the captain, but so far, that hasn't been the case. The Shūtoku coach, Nakatani, speculates that Akashi is merely scouting the area and should be advancing any minute. Midorima confronts him about this after the time-out between the 1st and 2nd quarter and asks him if he's not even going to use "his eyes". Akashi says that he isn't going easy, but that he should just not reveal his trump card so casually. He adds that they will probably win without any effort from Akashi and this angers Midorima. He continues on the matter when Hayama begins to play for real, proving that his teammates might be enough to ensure victory.[18]

Midorima ties the score at 39 – 39. Akashi stops the double-team on him and says that he will take on Midorima himself. During half-time, Seirin has time to warm up and they pass Rakuzan. Akashi and Kuroko greet each other, but Kagami steps up to Akashi and warns Akashi not to forget about him. He tells Akashi that he will defeat both him and Kise. Akashi states that while he acknowledges Kagami's ability, he warns Kagami that the only ones who are allowed to look him in the eye and speak are those that serve him. He lightly pushes Kagami and Kagami falls to the ground. Kagami is confused at Akashi's action, knowing that it was not mere strength that had allowed him to push him so easily. Akashi tells Kuroko to be prepared if they mean to fight him, as he was the one who first discovered Kuroko's talent, and adds that Kuroko would come to understand what he means.[19]

Akashi ankle breaks Takao and scores

The third quarter begins with a face-off between the two teams' aces. Midorima pulls up for a three pointer, but Akashi is able to steal the ball before Midorima could bring it above his head. He pushes the ball up the court, but encounters Takao. In the stands, Murasakibara explains that Akashi's eyes can see everything, from minuscule movements of the muscles to the heartbeat. Takao is glued to Akashi, but Akashi sees the movements of his feet and performs a crossover, causing Takao to fall to the ground. Akashi then pulls up for the mid-range shot and scores.[20]

Akashi ankle breaks Midorima

With Akashi's apparent dominance, Rakuzan enters the fourth quarter with a 14-point lead. When Kimura attempts to set a screen on Akashi, the latter easily avoids it, having seen it coming it with his wide field of vision. Midorima receives the ball, but can't get into a shooting position because of Akashi's defense. When Midorima shifts to a "triple threat" position to pass to Takao, Akashi intercepts the ball and makes a fast break to the other side of the field, but is awaited by Kimura and Miyaji. Akashi ankle breaks them both and drives to the basket, where Ōtsubo prepares to block him, but then passes at the last second to a now-open Nebuya, who dunks it. He later passes Midorima with the words that not even the Generation of Miracles can stop him. He makes the lay-up and widens the gap to 20 points.[21]

Akashi faces Midorima's new skill

All hope for Shūtoku High seems lost, but Midorima and Takao regain their fighting spirit. Midorima faces Akashi and suddenly moves into a shooting position - without the ball in his hands. He jumps into the air and the ball flies into his hands, a pinpoint pass sent by Takao. Akashi is perplexed to see all of this and can't stop the shot, which goes in. Midorima and Takao then successfully repeat the process in the next attack. When Midorima confronts Akashi, telling him that the match has only just begun, Akashi smiles and agrees.[22]

Rakuzan is on the offense and Akashi faces Midorima. Midorima is fueled up and determined to not let him pass, but Akashi does an ankle break and makes Midorima fall to the ground. Akashi is quick to reach the basket and goes for the lay-up, but a still determined Midorima manages to make it back to Akashi to block his shot attempt. Akashi reacts by shifting his shot to a pass outside to Nebuya, but he is blocked by Ōtsubo. Midorima makes another shot and Rakuzan is pressured at the inbound. Akashi gets double-teamed by Takao and Midorima, but he suddenly backs up and scores on his own basket.

Ignoring the shocked reactions of everyone in the arena, Akashi turns to his team and scolds them for slacking off just because of the temporary point difference just now. Akashi tells them to calm down and states that they would not have demonstrated such unsightly plays had the point difference been smaller. He then explains that if they were to lose by a small margin, the shot he had taken on his own basket just now would be the reason, and they could blame him as much as they liked. He adds that he would take full responsibility and quit the club immediately. As a symbol of atonement, he would gouge out his eyes and give it to them, to which his team members scold him for taking things to such an extreme. But Akashi tells them that he was not worried, for he had full confidence and faith that they would not lose the match. The Rakuzan members calm down and comes back with another basket. Akashi mysteriously tells Midorima that he will no longer be able to touch the ball.[23]

Akashi stops Takao's pass

Midorima tells Akashi that it is impossible to stop their shots, even with the Emperor Eye, but Akashi tells him that he is absolute, as he can see the future, it was but a simple matter to change it. A double-team is engaged on Takao but Takao easily gets through and passes the ball to the already in-position Midorima. However, Akashi stops the ball midway and tells Takao that he is absolute, surprising Midorima and Takao.[24] With the ball in his possession, Akashi easily scores a goal and the point difference shoots up to 13. Akashi explains that the shot had its flaws, because Midorima was left-handed, the ball must always come from the left. In addition, even though the ball was not in his possession, Midorima's movements were still the same. In short, even without the Emperor Eye, Akashi can easily find out his pass course and timing. The Emperor Eye was used for only one moment, to move one step faster than Takao, so that once the moment he could not cancel his move arrives, Akashi could have already acted. The double-team also let Takao through on purpose, in order to shorten the distance between him and Akashi.

"Sleep, Veteran King."

Takao is shocked, having thought that he already grasped Akashi's speed from the first half with his Hawk Eye, thus, even if Akashi had moved a step faster, he would not have reached in time, until he slowly realizes that Akashi had deliberately slowed his speed slightly in the first half, to the point of which even Midorima would not have noticed. Akashi tells Midorima that shogi and basketball are all the same, a strategic move will only work if you plan ahead without the opponent becoming aware of it.

The game continues and Mibuchi scores a goal while getting fouled, despite Takao's attempt to stop him. The match is coming to an end as the Rakuzan players score a few more goals. Akashi comes into possession of the ball and Midorima tries to stop him. Akashi tells him that it is over and performs an ankle break, causing Midorima to fall. However, Midorima resolutely refuses to give up and jumps to stop him. Akashi repeats his respect for Midorima and Shūtoku High School, but warns Midorima that he won't reach. As to his word, Midorima is unable to stop the shot and the match ends, with Rakuzan winning by 16 points. Akashi whispers "Sleep, Veteran King."[25]

Akashi meets Midorima after his victory

Both teams line up to thank each other for the match. Akashi, like his Rakuzan teammates, aren't cheering but rather look like they have overcome an ordeal, as commented on by the Kaijō team. Midorima offers a handshake to Akashi and admits his lost, but tells him that Shūtoku would win next time. Akashi expresses his gratitude to Midorima for such a thrilling game and apologizes, stating that he was unable to accept his handshake. He warns Midorima to become less compassionate if he were to crave victory. Akashi states that victory is everything and he wanted to be Midorima's enemy.[26] Midorima laments that Akashi still had not changed from last time but insists that they would win next time.

Both teams leave the court while elsewhere, a watching Himuro with Murasakibara reflects on that match and how the emperor's strength is so much greater. However, he notes that while it did not seem like Rakuzan was going easy on Shūtoku, he uneasily wonders if that was Rakuzan's true strength, or more importantly, Akashi Seijūrō's true strength. Either way, Himuro comments that there was no end to Rakuzan High School's potential strength.

Akashi watches the match

After a post-game meeting with his team, Akashi sits in the audience to spectate the last quarter of Kaijō vs Seirin. As he sees how strong Seirin really is and after positive comments from his teammates, Akashi acknowledges Seirin's strength. He says that Kaijō has a very capable team, but that without Kise, they stand little to no chance versus the current Seirin. He also deduces that with the current state of affairs, that the match will be decided in Seirin's favor if they manage to get 15 points ahead.[27]

Much later, he explains how it's vital that Kuroko predicts Kise's copies to win the match. He says that it's the only way to stop Kise in his Perfect Copy but that there are only 2 minutes left...[28] When the clock reaches 40 seconds, he says to Mibuchi that the next attack will be Seirin's last chance. He is eager to see what Kuroko has in store.[29] Later, when Kasamatsu takes the lead in the final 4 seconds, Nebuya assumes Kaijō is the winner. Akashi however, awaits the result a little longer. When Seirin's plan becomes clear, he elaborates on it, saying that they had to give Kaijō a point to give Kagami a head start to take it back instantly.[30] After the match ends in Seirin's favor, Akashi seems pleased about the result.[31]

Finals

Kuroko and Akashi during warm-up

During the warm-up, Akashi's teammates from Rakuzan ask him if he is going to be a starter for today's match, with Akashi confirming as their opponents are strong. Nevertheless, Akashi sees victory as already guaranteed. Suddenly a ball rolls up to Akashi who then throws it back to Kuroko who was warming up on the other side of the court. Akashi then asks him if he has found the answer to his question, that is "What is victory?". Kuroko tells him that he has and Akashi tells him to show him his basketball; however Kuroko tells him that it will not be his basketball he will be showing but Seirin's basketball. Akashi accepts Kuroko's challenge as both teams are ready for the match.[32]

Kagami uses Meteor Jam over Akashi

After all of the starting members of both teams are announced onto the court, the tip-off starts. Seirin gets the ball and attempts to score the first basket, but just when Hyūga was about to score, he is stopped by Mibuchi who gets the ball for Rakuzan. Akashi gets the ball and passes it to Nebuya who attempts to score but is stopped by Kagami. Seirin gets the ball again and counter attack. Kagami dribbles the ball to Rakuzan's basket when suddenly Akashi appears marking him. Kagami finds his resolve to win the match and suddenly jumps to dunk the Meteor Jam over Akashi, scoring the first basket of the match. Akashi notices that Kagami has entered the Zone.[33]

Kagami passes Akashi

Kagami has entered the Zone, resulting in Seirin leading the match. With the score of 11 - 2 for Seirin, even though Seirin is leading Shirogane is confident knowing this is not enough to shake Akashi. On the court, Akashi decides to switch marks with Hayama to mark Kagami.[34] As the match continues, the attention is on Kagami and Akashi. Izuki who has the ball, passes the ball to Kagami. Kagami tries to pass Akashi, but Akashi uses his Emperor Eye to try and stop him. Shocking everyone, Kagami evades the Emperor Eye and advances further to the basket. Kagami uses his Meteor Jam to score but the shot doesn't go in. Akashi then tells him that it is foolish to think that he can surpass the Emperor Eye and that he should not underestimate him that much. Akashi then goes on to explain how the Meteor Jam works and tells Kagami that all he needed to do was change the angle at which he shot.[35] The audience then comments that Akashi is not invincible because he has the Emperor Eye, but because he knows how to use it.

Ankle break on Kagami

It's Rakuzan's counterattack and Akashi has the ball. Kagami goes on to mark him but Akashi uses his Ankle Break to make Kagami fall and pass him. He tells Kagami not to underestimate yet again, as the Ankle Break Kise used against him was only a fake and that he should not compare the two.[36] Passing Kagami, Akashi advances further to the basket when Izuki attempts to use his Eagle Spear to steal the ball from Akashi. Akashi evades and passes the ball to Mibuchi who is stopped from making the shot by Mitobe.[37] Akashi admits he underestimated Mitobe and tells himself that he will no longer overlook the fact that he has no mark.

When Kagami got out of the Zone and is now in a neutral state, he gets the ball and passes it over Akashi to Mitobe who scores the basket. Akashi has the ball and passes it to Mayuzumi who then makes a basket for Rakuzan.[38] When the ball goes out of bounds, Kuroko is subbed back in the game. Hayama approaches Akashi and asks him for a second chance at marking Kagami, saying that he wants to return the favour. Akashi allows this, and the match continues with Hayama guarding Kagami. The match progresses until Kuroko's pass is intercepted, where Akashi reveals that Kuroko's development of new techniques caused his lack of presence to vanish, and he proceeds to rebuke Kuroko for failing to notice that flaw.[39]

When the first quarter ends, Akashi remarks that he's grasped the extent of Seirin's abilities, and he plans to let the three Uncrowned Generals take care of the offense, and let Mayuzumi take care of the passes.[40]

Akashi passes Furihata

The second quarter begins. When Mayuzumi reveals his misdirection, Seirin is surprised and Akashi states that he is the new model of the Phantom Sixth Man.[41] Rakuzan continue their play by passing the ball to Mayuzumi who passes the ball using his misdirection. Seirin asks for a time-out in which they decide that Izuki will be marking Mayuzumi and Furihata will mark Akashi.[42] The match continues and Akashi is in possession of the ball. Furihata is marking Akashi who passes Furihata easily but is then faced by Kagami. Furihata and Kagami change marks but Akashi manages to evade Kagami and attempt a basket when Kagami stops him.[43] The ball bounces off the hoop where Nebuya manages to catch it and score the basket.

Akashi dunks

Akashi is in possession of the ball during Rakuzan's counterattack but with no free teammate, Akashi decides to shoot a three-pointer. He uses his Ankle Break against Furihata and scores the basket.[44] Rakuzan calls for a time-out where Shirogane asks Akashi if the time-out was necessary to which he agrees. They decide to focus their play on Mibuchi who will score three-pointers. During the time-out, Furihata realises the immense pressure Akashi is emitting.

After the time-out ends, another Seirin first year is marking Akashi, much to Rakuzan's surprise.[45] Akashi evades his mark and passes the ball to Mibuchi who faces Hyūga in a one-on-one battle. Rakuzan continue to score constructive points due to the three Uncrowned Kings. There is now a 17 point gap difference between the two teams with the score of 35 - 52 for Rakuzan. Rakuzan continue to overwhelm Seirin as Mayuzumi passes the ball to Akashi who then dunks, completely destroying Seirin's hope.[46] The 1st half of the game ends.

Akashi uses his Emperor Eye on Kagami

During the interval, Rakuzan decide on their marks. Akashi will be marking Kagami while the rest will mark the other Seirin players. Akashi faces Kagami who has the ball and steals it with his Emperor Eye, scoring the basket.[47] Seirin calls for a time-out and Akashi along with the rest of the Generation of Miracles were surprised when they saw Kuroko coming back to the game. Akashi approaches Kuroko and asks him of his plans. Akashi tells him that he cannot believe that Kuroko still has hope of winning but Kuroko tells him that he's fighting because he wants to win. He tells Akashi that until the end, he won't run away.[48] Kuroko faces Mayuzumi in a one-on-one battle and overwrites him, surprising both Akashi and the rest of the Rakuzan players. Kuroko slowly gains his misdirection back.

Kagami marks Akashi again

Akashi intercepts a pass between Izuki and Koganei stealing the ball, but soon faces Kagami who has entered the Zone once again.[49] Kagami marks Akashi but with a large distance. Akashi is affected by Kagami's pressure but passes the ball to Mayuzumi who uses his misdirection to pass the ball to Nebuya who scores the basket. The current score is 48 - 71, with Rakuzan still in the lead. When Kuroko gains his misdirection back fully, Rakuzan calls for a time-out. The three Uncrowned Kings want to substitute Mayuzumi out but Akashi disagrees and tells Mayuzumi that he still has a use for him.[50] Once the match resumes, Akashi faces Kagami and passes the ball. The ball however disappears just like the effects of Misdirection. Akashi is using Mayuzumi for the sake of having the passes go through.[51]

Akashi enters the Zone

Akashi is pressured by Kagami and relies on the three Uncrowned Kings for offense. Once all three have lost their one-on-one battles, Akashi decides to discard his trust in them and start playing by himself. Akashi enters the Zone once his trigger for entering the Zone is fulfilled and that is to lose all faith in his teammates and deem them worthless.[52] Once in the Zone, Akashi's speed and reaction time have increased. Akashi passes Kagami easily with the latter not managing to keep up with Akashi. Akashi uses his Ankle Break on Izuki and Hyūga who went to mark him and scores the basket. Seirin calls for a time-out where they entrust all their hopes to Kagami.

The ball goes out of bounds

The game resumes and Kagami goes to mark Akashi, but notices Akashi's wide defence sphere. Akashi manages to pass izuki and Hyūga, but is then faced by Kagami. Akashi uses his Ankle Break to make Kagami fall twice and makes the basket.[53] On the sidelines, the familiar faces in the crowd note that a large difference between Kagami and Akashi is the Emperor Eye and that the only way Kagami can beat Akashi is if he opens the second door to the Zone. On the court, Akashi steals the ball from Kagami but the ball goes out of bounds. Kuroko approaches Kagami and offers to help him due to the burden being too large for himself alone. Kagami agrees as the two prepare to face Akashi, with Kuroko's intention to make up for the lack of the Emperor Eye.

Kuroko steals the ball from Akashi

The match resumes and Akashi intercepts Kiyoshi's attempt at scoring a basket. Akashi dribbles the ball to Seirin's hoop but is faced by Kagami and Kuroko who double team him. Akashi notes that he will evade Kagami easily and that Kuroko couldn't keep up with the speed of the two of them. Akashi uses his Emperor Eye to evade Kagami but notices that Kuroko has managed to keep up with him. Akashi is surprised as Kuroko has managed to steal the ball for Seirin.[54]

Kagami dunks on Akashi

Akashi is frustrated but also furious as a turnover happened to him. He turns running to block Kagami and catches up when Kagami evades Hayama. Akashi is blocking Kagami and decides to use his Emperor Eye to steal the ball. However, before he could, Kuroko snatches the ball away from Kagami using his Quasi-Emperor Eye.[55] Kuroko and Kagami do an alley-oop but Akashi goes to block Kagami once again. Kagami dunks and overwhelms Akashi due to his determination to win for his team. Akashi is shocked as he faces loss for the first time in his life, something both Murasakibara and Aomine notice when Akashi misses his three-pointer. Kise notes as well that Akashi is now out of the Zone.

Akashi's pass is intercepted

The next plays eventually gives Seirin the momentum as Akashi has gotten worse and continues to commit errors. Despite this, Seirin calls a time-out, trailing only by 6 points. Akashi, still in shock, could not accept his defeat and is totally out of his mind. In the next possession, Akashi gives a bad pass to Mibuchi who lost his pattern and missed a three pointer using the Heaven Shot.[56] Seirin counterattacks and scores. Hayama calls him a snail for not getting back on defense quickly. In their possession again, Akashi turns the ball over as Kagami steals the ball and scores with an alley-oop from Kuroko. Seirin now only trails by 2 points. Rakuzan finally calls a time-out. Nebuya confronted him out of rage and the entire team is in chaos because of his errors.[57]

The real Akashi reawakens

Coach Shirogane seems to worry about the mental damage Kuroko and Kagami has caused Akashi and plans to sub him out but not before Mayuzumi voices out his complaints and asks who he is.[58] From the depths of his consciousness, the real Akashi reflects the past and resolves to shoulder the burden of his sins by remaining as everyone's enemy. This time, he takes charge and pleads to let him stay in the game. He turns to Mayuzumi and replies that it's vexing to ask who he is. He simply replies that he is of course Akashi Seijurō with a smile.[59] Everyone in Rakuzan is still worried if he is okay and shocked with his sudden change as he apologizes for his mistakes and requests the other four to lend him their abilities once more.

Akashi evades both Kagami and Kuroko

After the game resumes, Akashi has the ball and faces Kagami in the Zone but Kagami is the one who is pressured by this and gets chills while facing Akashi and states that this has not happened in the game before. Akashi pulls out a neat crossover, tells Kuroko, "It's been a while," and then makes a smooth bounce pass to Mibuchi who scores a smooth 3 pointer before Kuroko could steal the ball. Mibuchi notices that this was the best shot he had taken in the entire game and was surprised that Akashi complimented his shot which made him excited. Akashi shows his perfect playmaking and Rakuzan widens the lead by 5 points. Kagami, still worried about the chills he felt, realizes Akashi entered the Zone again. Akashi warns him about what he thinks while admitting that he just returned to his form and may not be able to make a difference on his own, but the other four will be a different matter. Everyone was shocked that the other four had entered the Zone as well.[60]

Seirin barely manages to keep up with the current Rakuzan now that all five of their players have entered the Zone. The audience is shocked but more so at Akashi's incredible capabilities as a Point Guard. On the sidelines, Midorima notes that this is Akashi's true power: to bring out the full potential of his teammates.[61]

It is Seirin's counterattack and Hyūga has the ball but is marked by Mibuchi who is exerting great pressure. Hyūga decides to pass to Izuki but his pass is intercepted by Hayama who steals the ball. Hayama advances to Seirin's basket but is blocked by Kagami. Hayama tries to evade Kagami using his Lightning Dribble but fails and instead passes the ball to Akashi. Akashi passes the ball further to Mayuzumi who performs an alley-oop with Nebuya. Kagami tries to block him but fails as Akashi notes that the air is not a place for Kagami anymore. Rakuzan scores and raise their score to 96 - 103.[62] Seirin notice that Kagami has finally run out of the Zone.

The Seirin players are running out of stamina but still don't give up. Hyūga tries to shoot with his Barrier Jumper but is blocked by Mibuchi who touches the ball slightly making it miss. It is the rebound and Nebuya overwhelms Kiyoshi who is troubled by his injury.[63] Hayama receives the ball, passes Izuki who goes to block him but is faced with Kuroko who used his Quasi-Emperor Eye to predict Hayama's movements. Kuroko tries to steal the ball but fouls instead due to the fatigue. The ball is still in Rakuzan's possession. On the bench, Riko notices that her team is low on stamina but notes that Rakuzan still has reserves left and that with Akashi's power their performance has improved.[64]

Riko realises there is nothing else Seirin can do to attain victory as the team loses hope once again. Suddenly Ogiwara calls out to Kuroko from the audience as the rest of Seirin's past opponents join him. Seirin once again receive their spirits back and prepare to face Rakuzan once again. Kagami realises that the only way to beat Rakuzan is to open Zone's second door, but also notes that he has opened the second door unconsciously before. Akashi notices no major changes within Seirin but notes the change in their pressure which is stronger.[65] Akashi passes the ball to Mayuzumi, something which the Shūtoku players note as cautious play. Mayuzumi passes to Nebuya who passes back to Akashi. Akashi then passes the ball to Hayama who tries to dunk but is stopped by Kagami who has entered the Zone once again. Hayama expected this and evades only to be stopped by Hyūga instead.[66] Both Akashi and his teammates are shocked by this coordination between the two Seirin players.

Direct Drive Zone

Rakuzan is on the defence but Akashi notices that the Seirin players are perfectly synchronised with Kagami. On the sidelines Aomine laughs in realisation of the true form of the Zone, something which Akashi realises as well. Akashi realises what the true Zone is as Kagami opens the second door and passes Akashi with the Direct Drive Zone.[67]

"Hundred years too early"

Due to opening Zone's second door, Seirin is managing to pressure Rakuzan and score successive points. However, during Rakuzan's counterattack Akashi gets the ball and uses his Ankle Break to make Kagami fall and score a basket for his team. He tells Seirin that the victors of this match will be Rakuzan and that they are hundred years too early to defeat the emperors. The audience cheers but it is a heavy loss for Seirin as they only have forty-one seconds left to catch up to a seven point gap difference.[68] During Seirin's counterattack, Rakuzan moves to defense. The pressure they are exerting is great as Seirin has trouble passing the ball. Izuki has the ball and wants to pass to Kagami but he is double-teamed by Hayama and Mayuzumi. Instead, Izuki passes to Kiyoshi who passes to Hyūga. Akashi calls out to Mayuzumi as he notices that Kuroko has no mark. Kuroko receives the ball and performs a lateral long pass to pass the ball to Kagami who scores a three-pointer.[69]

Akashi moves on to block Kuroko

The gap between the two teams shrank with the current score being, 101 - 105. Rakuzan is on the attack and they are unperturbed with Seirin's defense. As Mibuchi passes the ball to Nebuya, Izuki intercepts the pass with his Eagle Eye and steals the ball for Seirin as they go for their last attack. Izuki tries to pass to Kagami again but he is double-teamed again with Akashi and Mayuzumi.[70] Izuki passes to Hyūga instead who copies Mibuchi's "Earth" shooting form and scores the basket, making Mibuchi foul in the process due to the nature of the shot. Mibuchi apologises to his team but Akashi tells him to focus on the rebound now.[71]

The players get into position for the free throw as Hyūga shoots and Kiyoshi gets the rebound. Kiyoshi then passes the ball to Kuroko who catches it and prepares to shoot.[72] Akashi, however, jumps to block him and tells him that this is the end. Kuroko tells him otherwise, that it is not the end and tells him that he is a shadow.[73] Kuroko shoots but it turns out to be an alley-oop with Kagami as he dunks the ball into the hoop. The buzzer beater rings as Seirin emerge as the victors of the match with the score of 106 - 105.[74]

Akashi congratulates Kuroko and Seirin on their victory

Akashi and his team are in shock after their defeat. Akashi finally learns the meaning of defeat and describes it as immense pain in the chest. However, due to this pain he can truly appreciate playing basketball and having met Kuroko. Akashi approaches Kuroko as he sheds tears and extends his arm out for a handshake.[75] Akashi congratulates Kuroko and Seirin on their victory and tell them that next time Rakuzan will be the winners. Kuroko accepts Akashi's challenge and promises to play against each other again in the future. The closing ceremony begins and Seirin get their trophies.

A few weeks after the Winter Cup, Kuroko receives a photo from Momoi which was taken on his birthday. The photo shows Akashi with the rest of his past teammates from Teikō playing street ball.[76] This shows that the bonds between them have been renewed as they play together again.

EXTRA GAME

Team Vorpal Swords is formed

Akashi watched the exhibition match of Team Jabberwock vs Team Strky on TV. As he saw the complete humiliation, he was left speechless. Along with the other Miracles, Kuroko and Kagami, he was called out by Kagetora Aida to play for "The Dream Team" against Team Jabberwock. Upon meeting, he expresses his delight to play with his former teammates and insists that they forget their rivalries during Inter-High and Winter Cup.[77]

Training

Before the team begins their practice, Kagetora introduces Momoi and Riko as the team's manager and assistant manager, but also the substitutes which are Hyūga from Seirin, Takao from Shūtoku and Wakamatsu from Tōō. When Akashi notices Hyūga's unease he approaches the latter to try to calm him down, the act however having the opposite effect.[78] After the introductions, all of the players begin their training.

After practice, Momoi briefs the team on Team Jabberwock's stats and capabilities. First she informs them about Silver and his massive strength, speed and jumping power, surpassing those of Kagami, Aomine and Murasakibara. After Silver, Momoi tells them of Gold and the fact that he still didn't reveal his full capabilities. Akashi tells everyone that he will mark Gold from the beginning but admits he has some abilities that can negate his, it will be a difficult match.[79] Kise and Aomine are surprised by this, but nevertheless, Aomine trusts Akashi to win against Gold.

After the briefing, the team is motivated to carry on their training. After six days, the team's synchronisation has improved, however, it is still not perfect which leaves Riko and the rest to believe in Akashi and the rest. As Kagetora excuses himself to go pay for Jabberwock's expenses, Kise and Kagami notice that Kuroko is missing, probably because he followed Kagetora.

Help arrives

Akashi and the rest of the team run to Kuroko's help, each expressing their amazement at Kuroko's actions. When Akashi and the rest arrive, they witness Kuroko being mocked by Gold which almost results in a fight. However, before it could happen, Akashi tells everyone that they will settle everything on the court, something to which Kuroko agrees.[80] Akashi and his team leave Team Jabberwock with a warning that they will be the ones defeated.

On the day of the match, the Generation of Miracles are chosen as the starter members as the tip-off begins with Murasakibara getting the ball and passing it to Akashi who further passes it to Aomine who scores the first points of the match, getting Team Vorpal Swords in the lead.[81]

They continue to build their momentum and increased their lead to 6. The 1st quarter ends with the score of 20-16. Though they have the lead, Kagetora is bothered by the fact that Jabberwock haven't shown their all yet the the Vorpal Swords are already exhausting just after one quarter.

The 2nd quarter begins with Silver driving past Aomine and overpowering Murasakibara with a dunk. Then, he blocks Akashi's fadeaway shot and does a two-handed windmill lane-up while outrunning Kise and Midorima in the fastbreak. Silver has dominated the quarter, widening Jabberwock's lead to 9. With 5 minutes left in the quarter, the Vorpal Swords decided to sub out Akashi and Midorima for Kagami and Kuroko. Murasakibara tried to assert that he can handle Silver but was convinced by Akashi that it's for the best. Holding down Silver in the post with his whole body, the latter spins past him and is met by Kagami inside and blocked with Aomine's help. Kuroko starts the fastbreak and Kise gets the ball, passing to Kagami and dunks. An enraged Silver tries to retaliate and spins past on Kagami and Murasakibara's double-team but is met by Aomine and got the ball stolen. Kise dunks on the fastbreak and the 2nd quarter ends with Jabberwock leading 40-36.

The 3rd quarter starts and Gold seemed different from before. Sensing this, Kise decided to focus entirely but was stunned after Gold made an insane fast pass with no preliminary movement. Kuroko made an alley-oop pass to Kagami but is blocked by Silver in the air. Gold continues to distribute those insane fast passes with no preliminary movements, always leaving the defenders stunned. On one play, Murasakibara bleeds after getting dunked on by Silver who is not even using his full strength yet. Jabberwock's lead widened to 19 (61-42). Vorpal Swords call a timeout. Kagetora explains that Akashi's ability to drag everyone into the zone cannot be done for two reasons. First is, the players are already exhausted and won't last for rest the game and second is that for some unknown reason, Gold is inhibiting his ability. But Akashi assures that they can still win as long as Gold and Silver are kept under control. To do this, he has Murasakibara defend the no. 6 and 7 players of Jabberwock while Kise and Aomine team up to stop Silver while he will mark Gold. The match resumes and Silver seems surprised by the sudden change in the two. Kise activates his Perfect Copy while Aomine enters the Zone.

The players of Jabberwock were amazed on Aomine and Kise's sudden change. The double team then swarmed on Silver and successfully stole the ball and Aomine scores with a formless shot. The Vorpal Swords steal the ball again and eventually gained the momentum through Aomine and Kise's teamwork. However, the Jabberwock's lead hasn't decreased and Gold had seen through their tactic and decided to switch Jabberwock's offense through No. 6 and 7. Gold passes to No. 7 and scores a 'barrier jumper' on Murasakibara but with a different style. Both teams continue to score with the point difference not decreasing. Suddenly, Kise decided to take on Silver by himself and has Aomine help Murasakibara under the basket who has taken so much toll. While Riko thinks that they are taking things lightly, Kagetora explains that it's exactly the opposite. Realizing the situation, Kise decided to sacrifice himself by taking Silver alone so that Aomine could preserve his strength. Silver goes for a jump-stop but Kise blocks him copying Murasakibara's defense. Then he copies Aomine's speed but Silver realized that he has gotten faster on his own and dunks on him. Kise enters the zone and at the same time, Akashi calls out to his other self for help and seemed to have realized the reason behind the restrainment of his abilities (Gold has been blocking the perfect courses for his passes which would force him to change his pass). His other self was reluctant at first for he was once an enemy to them but Akashi assures that it's fine and that everything has changed and finally convinced his other self. The 3rd quarter ends with still a 10 point lead from Jabberwock (60-70).

Akashi intercepts Gold's invisible pass

At the start of the final quarter, Kise finally runs out of energy and has to be substituted by Midorima. Akashi helps the Kaijō player reach the bench, stating that Ryōta has done pretty well and should now leave the rest to him. Back to the match, Gold states that Kise's effort was meaningless, to which Akashi replies stating that, compared to his team-mates, Ryōta has done more than enough. Gold shoots his invisible pass, only for Akashi to intercept it, greatly shocking the Jabberwock player and making his teammates realize that the other Akashi is back.

The other Akashi is back

The shocked Gold notices his sudden change but at the same time, thinks that he has 'it' and decided to try one more time to prove that he is correct. Akashi jokingly says that he was a 'little bit rusty' but guarantees that it won't happen again, provoking Gold. One more time, he performed a crossover behind the back with no preliminary movement and jump-stops into a fadeaway jumper but Akashi had already seen through it and steals the ball. The Jabberwock Point Guard is now certain that he has those 'eyes that can see the future'. Akashi leads the fastbreak and anklebreaks the Jabberwock's no. 12 and passes to Kagami for a dunk but is blocked by Silver. Thankfully, Akashi regains the ball but was forced to change his passing course upon seeing Midorima double-teamed. He passes and receives the ball from Kagami and made a quick alley-oop to Murasakibara who dunks. Gold became more cautious and made a forced behind the back pass to avoid Akashi's grasp. The Jabberwock team doesn't hold back and is still scoring. The Vorpal Swords call a timeout.

While Kagetora assessed that neither teams have the advantage, Akashi came up with an idea and turns to Midorima, asking for his trust. Upon realizing what he wants to do, Midorima guarantees that his shots will not miss. The game resumes and the double-team is still on Midorima but the latter already prepared himself for a shooting pose without the ball and eventually received it from Akashi's pass. The 3-pointer went in and the game continues with Jabberwock still scoring but the Vorpal Swords shrinking the gap with the 'catch-shoot cooperation' of Akashi and Midorima. Aomine intercepts a pass and Midorima shot a full court 3-pointer freely again. The difference is now down to 3 (71-74).

Gold expresses his surprise on Jabberwock being pushed to that point and admits that they made some miscalculations and their biggest miscalculation was Akashi. He added that it's the first time he met someone with the same "eye" as his, shocking the Vorpal Swords, especially Akashi.

Skill

Physical Ability

9/10

Technique

10/10

Stamina

9/10

Mental Strength

10/10

Special Ability

10/10

As captain of the Teikō basketball team, he led the team to consecutive victories and they would later be known as the Generation of Miracles. At Rakuzan High, he became the captain of the basketball team as a freshman. Miyaji comments that this is highly unusual as upper-class students would not normally surrender their position to a first year, and also the fact that the 3 Uncrowned Kings (who are known to be prideful individuals) follow his orders without question, this shows his exceptional leadership skills. Akashi is shown to be very fast and an excellent ball-handler.

According to Masaaki Nakatani, the way Akashi played in the first quarter of Rakuzan vs Shūtoku is similar to how one would play shogi, with Akashi assessing the situation before he makes his move, indicating that Akashi is a skilled tactician. Akashi's plays are extremely well-designed, as it was revealed in the Rakuzan vs Shūtoku match that everything that had occurred was all a part of Akashi's plan. During the match, Takao states that Akashi's perfection as a point guard is undeniable. Akashi has also been seen to successfully shoot three-pointers.[44][82] In the same match Akashi beats Midorima in a one on one isolation with ease. Akashi has also similarly beat Murasakibara in a one on one easily. Akashi has also beaten Kagami in a one on one.

Emperor Eye

Upon reawakening of his real self against Seirin, Akashi displays his perfect playmaking by giving smooth passes. Takao compliments him as the 'ideal point guard' even if his shooting were not to be mentioned.
Akashi is the only member of the Generation of Miracles who has awakened his ability forcefully. His awakening occurred during his one-on one-match against Atsushi Murasakibara where he activated his Emperor Eye, along with the second personality which resided within him. It would seem that the two personalities each have their own special skill.

Akashi's playing style differed based on what personality was the dominant one. Though the real Akashi personality has become the dominant one, his attitude when under pressure is like that of the second personality such as when Seirin successfully unleashed the "Direct Drive Zone".

In Kuroko no Basket: Extra Game Chapter 6, The real Akashi can switch to the other Akashi personality in order to use the Emperor Eye to its full power. In Kuroko no Basket Extra game Chapter 8, the other Akashi decides to vanish and transfer his full skill to the real Akashi which allows him to use the full power of the Emperor eye without needing to switch personalities with the other Akashi.

Emperor Eye

First revealed in the 3rd quarter of Rakuzan vs Shūtoku, Akashi's eyes are capable of observing every movement of his opponent, thus predicting the opponent's next move. When activated by the second personality, a glowing ring manifests in between his eyes. The Emperor Eye when used at its maximum potential, displays a glowing ring around the iris of the eye. Even without the glowing ring, Akashi is seen to still have Emperor Eye active.

According to Murasakibara, his Emperor Eye can see the smallest details of a person's movements, including their breathing, heartbeat, sweat, muscle contractions, etc. With this, he can time his actions perfectly to nullify the opponent's movements, sabotaging whatever tactics the opponent tries to execute. All offenses are predicted beforehand and all defenses crumble before his eyes [83] In short, he can "see the future of his opponent's moves."

It's revealed in Chapter 6 of Kuroko No Basket: Extra Game that Akashi cannot fully utilize the Emperor Eye like the other Akashi. However, the original Akashi can still utilize Emperor Eye as well but to a lesser extent, to the point where the glowing ring around the iris is almost never shown and only shown for a moment before disappearing again. This is because the Emperor Eye isn't the original Akashi's special talent but rather the other Akashi's talent. In order to use the Emperor Eye to its fullest potential, the real Akashi must switch to the other Akashi personality.

Complete Emperor Eye

In the fourth quarter during the game between Team Vorpal Swords and Team Jabberwock, both of Akashi's personalities thought that the Emperor Eye was inferior to Gold's Belial Eye. However, the other personality thought otherwise, stating that the Emperor Eye isn't inferior but rather incomplete because the two were split apart. In order to stop Gold, the other Akashi decided to vanish and transfer his full skill to the real Akashi in order to access the full power of the Emperor Eye without needing to switch personalities. The other Akashi stated that once the Emperor Eye merges with the real Akashi's court vision used to make perfect passes, he will gain a power equal to or greater than Nash. Afterwards, Akashi was able to predict the future even further than Gold's Belial eye. With his Complete Emperor Eye, Akashi was able to perceive the best possible pattern from Gold's movements which lead Akashi to successfully steal the ball from him.

Wide Field of Vision: Akashi can easily see openings in defenses, as shown when he passed the ball through Kazunari Takao's guard.[84] Also, similar to the Hawk's Eye, Akashi's vision covers his blind spots, allowing him to easily avoid a screen from Shinsuke Kimura.[85]

Passing the ball through Takao's guard

His field of vision allowing him to avoid the screen

Triple Threat Penetration: Akashi's eyes can capture the moment when his opponent goes into Triple Threat, the most basic form in basketball. It is the form that sets up all three motions: shooting, passing, and dribbling. Almost any move a player attempts to make will start from that stance. By using his Emperor Eye, Akashi can read the opponent's movement and proceeds to intercept the ball before they can react. Against Akashi's superb speed and reflexes, the opponent can't even afford to move.[86]

Akashi steals the ball from Midorima

Stealing Midorima's ball while in Triple Threat

Ankle Break Dribble: Akashi can perform the Ankle Break, a high-level speed dribble that disrupts his opponent's balance and makes them stumble to the ground. This situation occurs when the opponent's center of gravity is on their pivot leg while they're turning. Players collapsing due to this rarely occurs under normal circumstances. However, withhis Emperor Eye, Akashi can predict the moment his opponent is unbalanced, allowing him to perform this technique with little difficulty.[87]

Similar to Aomine, Akashi has displayed the ability to willingly enter the Zone. This was first shown in the fourth quarter of the final match during the Winter Cup, where he was able to stop Kagami (who was also in the Zone) when he was starting his dunk, revealing his increased reaction and accuracy time.[88] Additionally Akashi in the Zone was noticed to be able to outrun Kagami (who was also in the Zone) on a fastbreak. [89] It was also shown that like Kagami's Zone, Akashi's Zone also possess a sphere of defense of equal size.

The trigger for Akashi to enter the Zone is when he decides to stop relying on his teammates to win and instead wishes to grasp victory by himself.[90]

Perfect-Rhythmed Plays

Compared to the rest of the Generation of Miracles, it is revealed that Akashi has a second ability. An ability that is on par with or even greater than the Emperor Eye. According to Midorima's hypothesis to Kuroko, the Emperor Eye was forcefully activated by Akashi through pressure against the one-on-one with Murasakibara during their third year in Teikō. It is speculated by the latter that this skill belongs to the other Akashi, instead of the original Akashi. However, the original Akashi can also utilize Emperor Eye as well to a lesser extent to the point where the glowing ring around the iris is almost never shown and only shown for a moment before disappearing again.This happens because of ownership, rather than not being able to use it. The real Akashi needs to switch places with the other Akashi to gain it's full power, as it is, in fact, the other Akashi's skill.

Rakuzan in a Zone-like state

Against Seirin, Akashi awakened his second ability that is Perfect-Rhythmed Plays. With his Emperor Eye and perfect playmaking, Akashi can grasp the situation and send accurate passes at whim. Though it appears that this is just a normal play, the real thing is when Akashi sets his teammate for good looks and throws a perfect pass, he creates a perfect rhythm in them. In other words, his second ability is to draw out his teammates' true potentials.

The trigger is the exact opposite of the other Akashi's Zone; instead of abandoning his teammates to grasp for victory himself, the real Akashi grants his teammates access to a Zone-like state. This is because Akashi's playmaking ability has drawn out the full potential of the other four though it is noted it's only around 90%, a step before the Zone. It is also worth noting that when Akashi enters the zone, he emits an aura that surrounds him while making perfect passes, which is probably the 'Zone distribution' to his teammates.

Streetball Handles

Akashi's Streetball Handling

Akashi can dribble the ball at a very high level that is hard for the defender's eyes to follow, making it very hard for them to steal. This technique is very similar to the one Gold uses as it also has the ball moving at such a high pace with the use of many feints, confusing the defender. This helped him pass the ball out of the range of Gold's Demon Eye, by passing the ball behind his back to Aomine. The crowd described Akashi as a natural born streetballer when he preformed this. He also had flashy passes based on streetball, notably the elbow pass to Eikichi Nebuya

Additional Attributes

Switching from a lay-up to a pass

Dunking on Kagami and Kiyoshi

Situational Analysis Speed: Akashi's mental prowess when judging a scenario and making split second decisions is extremely fast. This allowed him to switch from a lay-up to a pass almost instantaneously against Midorima.[91]

High Physical Prowess: Aside from being highly intelligent on- and off-court, Akashi also possesses an extremely good physique, which accounts for his jumping power. This is proven when despite being only 173 cm, Akashi is still capable of performing an alley-oop with Chihiro Mayuzumi to dunk the ball in. Notably, he scores over both Kagami and Kiyoshi, who are at least 15 cm taller than him, though he did catch both off guard due to Mayuzumi's misdreaction.[92] He is even able to use his jumping power for defense to stop Kiyoshi's dunk (while being in the Zone).[93]

Relationships

Akashi was the one who discovered Kuroko's talent and the one who taught him basketball techniques and helped strengthen his misdirections. Akashi is also the one who promoted Kuroko from the third string to Teikō's regulars.[94] Like his former teammates, Kuroko respects, but also fears Akashi. It was shown in the beginning of the Winter Cup that Kuroko obeyed Akashi's summon without question.

Akashi and Kuroko meet for the first time

Before meeting Kuroko, Akashi was not satisfied with the current Teikō team and wanted a change - a 6th man who would change the flow of the game whenever the situation required it. When he saw Kuroko for the first time, he thought that Kuroko would be that very player, a 6th man. After seeing Kuroko, Akashi questioned him and pushed him in the right direction to making his own style of playing, based on his lack of presence. Three months later, Kuroko approaches Akashi and lets him know he has set on a style and Akashi decides to test Kuroko in a practice match. Kuroko shocks and impresses the first string players, including Akashi, and is admitted into the team with Akashi's help. During this time Akashi was very supportive of Kuroko and helped him overcome his nervousness and doubts. During Kuroko's first match, Akashi helped Kuroko polish his "misdirection" and helped him develop his style of play he uses today.

When the Generation of Miracles began changing and realizing their true potentials, Akashi changed drastically, which made Kuroko realize that there are two Akashi's, the Akashi he knew and the other Akashi, who emerged from the change in the team.

Akashi's and Kuroko's brief meeting

Akashi holds very high expectations for Kuroko. Showing that even in the most desperate situations, he believed in team Seirin's victory when everyone else didn't, mostly because of Kuroko's influence on the team. He was also surprised when Kuroko revealed his new skills, the "Ignite Pass Kai" and "Misdirection Overflow" showing that Kuroko did indeed surpass his expectations. Some time after when there was a half time during the game between Rakuzan and Shūtoku, Akashi and Kuroko met for a short time. It was the first time they met again after the opening ceremony. In this short meeting Akashi warns Kuroko that if he's planning to fight against him, he would have to be careful. Telling Kuroko that he is the one that found Kuroko's hidden potential first and that Kuroko would come to know what that means. After Rakuzan and Seirin won their matches, it was finally decided which two teams would be in the finals: Kuroko's team Seirin and Akashi's team Rakuzan. In the finals, Akashi revealed the reason why he didn't allow Kuroko to learn how to shoot or drive is because he knew that Kuroko's "lack of presence" would fade away. However, he tasted humiliation for the first time when he failed to analyze Kuroko's plan despite having his Emperor Eye and got the ball stolen.

When Akashi and Rakuzan lost in the Winter Cup finals, Akashi experienced defeat for the first time and describes it as immense pain in the chest. However, due to this pain he is able to appreciate playing basketball and meeting Kuroko.[95] It is shown that Akashi respects Kuroko for defeating him as both of them renew their friendship and play together again in streetball basketball.[96]

In the novel 'Replace', Kuroko mentioned, "If Akashi was a teacher, it would make lessons very easy to understand." This likely refers to their time back at Teikō when Akashi was Kuroko's personal instructor.

Midorima seems to have a close and respectable relationship with Akashi, knowing more things about him than the other Generation of Miracles. During Akashi's captaincy in Teiko, he would often play shogi with him, but was never able to win a match against him. Despite respecting him, he seemed to be competitive with him, albeit one-sidedly as Akashi did not seem to see him as much of a threat. During a certain match, when Akashi told him he did not know defeat, he promised to show it to him one day. Midorima was one of the first to notice the change in Akashi's personality, noticing there were two of him, something that he found shocking and disturbing. Despite knowing this, he never spoke about it with Akashi.

After graduating Teikō Junior High and enrolling in Shūtoku High, Midorima still seemed to respect Akashi as seen before the Winter Cup, when he allowed Akashi to borrow his scissors (the day's lucky item) despite refusing Murasakibara earlier on.[97] During the Rakuzan vs Shūtoku match, Akashi admits that he acknowledges Midorima's skills and in turn, Midorima is also fully aware of Akashi's formidable skills, and acknowledges his strength, something which he rarely did for others. After the match, Midorima offers a handshake to Akashi, though the latter refuses it, wishing to remain as Midorima's enemy.[98]

Midorima does not show any signs of anger but merely laments that Akashi was still the same and insists that Shūtoku would emerge victorious the next time they battle again. Afterwards, he was seen crying stating it was frustrating to lose, while thinking of not being able to show Akashi defeat as he promised.

As Aomine starts to slack off practices more often, Murasakibara insists that he too can slack off because Aomine does and he feels like he can't lose even without practice. Akashi does not permit this and was angered by Murasakibara for calling him weaker than him and he won't listen to his orders. He challenged Murasakibara to a 1-on-1 with Murasakibara continuing to overpower him and block his shots. On the verge of losing, he asserts to his outlook that he can't lose and "his orders are absolute and always correct" causing him to finally awaken his Emperor's Eye and win against Murasakibara. Since then, Murasakibara fears him and always listen to what he says and even did not play in the Interhigh because he told him to.

Akashi is much feared and respected amongst the Generation of Miracles. As the former captain of Teikō, he led the team to many victories, in which would cause them to be later known as the Generation of Miracles. Notably, Akashi refers to all of his team members by their first names while most of the other members refer to each other by their family names, with a few exceptions. The rest of the Generation of Miracles respects him and shows much acknowledgement towards his abilities, with Murasakibara even stating that he could not envision Akashi losing.

Even though a first year, Akashi instantly became the captain due to his reputation as the captain of the "Generation Of Miracles". Surprisingly, no upperclassmen complained about this, even the prideful "Uncrowned Kings". He holds much respect and faith in his teammates and their abilities as much as they do to him. During the night after the first day of the Winter Cup, it is revealed that Akashi easily defeated Mibuchi, Hayama and Nebuya in a 3-on-1 match to make sure of his trump card in case of a dangerous situation. However, as each player of Seirin managed to stop the three Uncrowned Kings in the Winter Cup Finals, his cold personality started to surface as he says he was disappointed in them and plans to break away from his teammates to get the victory all by himself.

When his mental state started to crumble and his true personality awakened, he apologized to his teammates for his rude behavior and asked for their help. His positive influence on his team allowed them to enter the Zone.

In his Character DVD, sometime after the Winter Cup, he is seen having a difficult time properly relating to the Uncrowned Kings as they are his upperclassmen and teammates at the same time. After they express discomfort with him speaking to them in a formal manner, he takes on their request to speak to them like he always does. After some discussion about worries and concerns, he is seen having a more positive relationship with them. He also encourages Mibuchi to not worry about the past and focus on the future together with their team.

Their first meeting didn't start off as friendly; when Kagami introduced himself to Akashi, Akashi used Midorima's scissors to graze Kagami's cheek for not heeding his orders to leave. During their second meeting, Kagami declares that he will crush him should they meet in the finals. While Akashi does acknowlege Kagami's talent, he refuses to allow Kagami to look him in the eye, easily pulling down Kagami and telling him to know his place.

Quotes

"In this world, winning is everything; winners are validated and losers are denied. Until now, I've never lost at anything, and I won't in the future. Since I always win, I'm always right. If you oppose me... I'll kill you, no matter who you are.[99]

"The only ones who are allowed to look me in the eye as I speak are those that serve me. No one that opposes me is allowed to look down on me. Know your place."[100]

"You too, Tetsuya. You'd better be prepared, if you're planning to fight me. I'm the one who first discovered your power. You'll come to understand what that means."[101]

"To all of you gathered here, in this place...I will show you the difference in our positions."[108]

"And thus, by witnessing my glorious form, you should now realize... That your defeat is absolute." [109]

"We can't go back to being teammates. And what happens, the sins I've commited can't be erased. In that case, it would be best to shoulder the burden of my sins, and continue onward as their enemy."[110]

"I wonder if it's because my opponent is Kuroko... That I have the drive to continue playing. This urge towin is beyond my control." [111]

"I've lost. It's the first time since the day I was born. So this is.... Defeat. How cruel... There is an inexplicable pain in my chest. I don't know if I am able to maintain my composure until the line-up."[112]

"Your head is held too high" from the original “Zu ga takai zo (頭が高いぞ)”, often said when using his technique to make his opponents kneeling down. Sometimes is also translated as "Lower your head" or "Know your place."

"A plate can never be fully restored once it has a crack, But if it is still usable, what we have now will suffice."

Akashi's other self to Akashi:"...It seems this is the only way... You understand already. Nash is strong. At this rate, we'll lose... I will vanish. I will return everything to you, so you can return to being a single being... I have confidence... You'll no doubt be able to gain a power equal to or greater than Nash... Don't worry... I was able to have a parting gift as grand as getting to play with everyone. Thank you."[114]

Trivia

On the first character poll, Akashi ranked 29th, with 26 votes, before he even made his appearance. He ranked 18th on the second poll with 263 votes and on the third poll, Akashi ranked 1st with 6276 votes (Kuroko ranked 2nd with 3505 votes). This is the first time someone other than Kuroko has come first.

Akashi is probably based on the nba player Steve Nash since they both are excellent in passing and handling the ball.

The kanji 赤 (Aka) in his name means red, hinting to his hair color. The next kanji 司 (Shi) means office, as in a department of government.

It was revealed that the names of his father and mother are Masaomi (征臣) and Shiori (詩織) respectively.

In the original datebook, CHARACTERS BIBLE, an early character concept sketch of Akashi is seen. His current hairstyle and the one in middle school are drawn, together with three other alternate hairstyles.

At the time when Akashi's face hasn't been revealed yet, he sometimes appeared very mysterious and cool with his face covered, e.g. throwing a shogi piece in that air and catching it dramatically. This was made fun of in the bloopers, when he failed to catch the piece. Other intimidating actions also failed in other bloopers.

In the manga, Akashi's full face wasn't revealed until chapter 113, in the anime, his full face could be seen in the 2nd Opening and a reference in episode 22 made by Izuki (with both eyes red).

In the second drama CD, Akashi states that he dislikes beni shoga (pickled ginger).

It is shown through a flashback that Akashi can play both the piano and the violin.[116]

Akashi addresses the other Generation of Miracles and his Rakuzan teammates informally, calling them by their first names. This is notable because most of the characters always address each other with their last or family names, with very few exceptions.

When asked about his weakness, he says that he doesn't have any in particular.

Akashi concludes with saying that basketball is a way to improve himself.

He hates wakame, because he dislikes seaweed.

Despite being a first year, he is the student council president at Rakuzan.

The horse he always rides is called Yukimaru, a white horse that was born on a snowy day and is of the same age as Akashi.[119]

In volume 30 of the manga, it revealed Akashi is unable to make jokes.

In Q.266 of the Manga, it is revealed that:

The Akashi family, according to tradition, has always been strict. It was an Akashi's duty to achieve victory.

Akashi's father is extremely strict as well.

Akashi started his education at a very young age. His work load was so much that even adults would’ve complained bitterly[120]. He also didn't have his freedom.

His mother was his moral support and got him through a cruel childhood[121]. She convinced his father to give him a little bit of freedom. His mother eventually died when Akashi was in his fifth year of elementary school. [122][123]

After the death of Akashi's mother, his father became stricter than before. His school training increased as well.